You don’t have to accept changes that occur with menopause like pain with sex, vaginal dryness, urinary urgency and urinary incontinence as your ‘new normal’. Let us help you feel like yourself again.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a collection of symptoms caused by changes in the vulva, vagina, bladder, and urethra due to decreased estrogen levels—most often during or after menopause. Lower estrogen can lead to thinning and dryness of the tissues, reduced elasticity, and changes in the pelvic floor muscles. These changes can lead to sexual function, bladder control, and overall pelvic comfort. GSM can affect daily life in many ways, from discomfort during sexual intercourse to increased urinary frequency, urgency, and even recurrent urinary tract infections. While common, these symptoms are not something you have to simply “live with”—they are treatable with a team of health professionals which should include a gynecologist (to address hormones as a factor) and pelvic health physical therapist (to address the muscles, fascia surrounding the organs and throughout the pelvis and bony alignment as factors). Not every pelvic PT has training to treat the menopausal woman so seeking out an expert like our team in this advanced area of study/treatment is critical.
GSM is primarily caused by a drop in estrogen levels during menopause which will influence the pelvic floor muscles and pelvic fascia – it can also occur after surgical removal of the ovaries, certain cancer treatments, or other hormonal changes. Estrogen helps maintain healthy blood flow, collagen, and moisture in the pelvic floor muscles and tissues of the vagina, bladder, and urethra. Without it, the tissues can become thinner, drier, and the muscles less flexible. Subsequently, pelvic floor muscle tension, scar tissue from childbirth or surgery, or chronic bladder irritation—can worsen symptoms and will typically not resolve with estrogen hormone replacement therapy alone.
We start with a compassionate, thorough conversation about your symptoms, medical history, and hormonal changes. Our pelvic health specialists perform a gentle pelvic floor examination to assess tissue health, muscle tone, and mobility, as well as bladder and urethral function. We also evaluate posture, hip mobility, abdominal and pelvic fascia and scar tissue from previous births or surgeries. When needed, we collaborate with your gynecologist or other healthcare providers to coordinate care—whether that includes hormonal replacement therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, or both. This team-based approach ensures we address all aspects of GSM for lasting relief.
Overview of Sarton PT’s specialized, evidence-based treatment plan—multi-modal care customized to each patient.
Sarton Physical Therapy has been a life saver for me in many ways not to mention the excellent and caring staff on board at Sarton. I’ve known Julie Sarton for nearly 14 years now and have seen her and her team through various seasons of life including as I transitioned into menopause. I like to think of them as my healing angels as they have helped me with my pelvic floor dysfunction and pain go from a 10 down to 3.
You deserve answers and relief from your pelvic pain. Our experienced team is here to guide you in reclaiming your confidence and quality of life.
